DC Power Networks Poised for Spectacular Growth

Ready for some spectacular growth? According to a new report from Navigant Research, the total worldwide capacity of direct current (DC) distribution networks will surpass 2.3 gigawatts (GW) by 2025, up from just 196 megawatts (MW) in 2013. In that same period, revenue generated by DC networks is expected to grow nearly tenfold, from $2.8 billion annually in 2013 to $24.1 billion by 2025.
The market for DC networks is being fueled by a variety of factors. Two of the more basic drivers are the fact that as much of 80 percent of energy end uses require DC power, and that DC networks eliminate power loss through AC-to-DC conversion.

Of course there are other factors, such as DC’s 8 percent greater efficiency in midrange voltages, and its safe-to-touch 24VDC applications for lighting and other home and office uses. That last factor allows for far greater layout flexibility, as well as ease of installation and repair.

If you think the future will be bright, that’s probably because it will be powered by DC systems.